The Art of Fashion event returns to Rancho Santa Fe in September

The Country Friends Art of Fashion, the nonprofit’s annual celebration of fall and philanthropy, takes to the runway at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe on Thursday, Sept. 12. The fashion show will feature selections from the fall-winter collections of South Coast Plaza’s leading luxury retailers, including Balmain, Camilla, Isabel Marant, Lanvin, Max Mara, Michael Kors Collection, Missoni, Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, and Saks Fifth Avenue, according to a news release.

“This year’s event is extra special because it marks the 70th anniversary of The Country Friends,” notes Janean Stripe, the nonprofit’s president, in the news release. “We are also proud of our 20-year partnership with South Coast Plaza, our presenting sponsor, which always presents a fabulous show.”

Since it was founded in 1954, The Country Friends has provided $15 million to San Diego County-based charities.Philanthropist Joan Waitt is the event’s honorary chair, with Tamara Lafarga-Joseph and MJ Wittman serving as co-chairs. Emcee is Sandra Maas, an award-winning broadcast journalist and community leader.

The event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., begins with a champagne reception on The Inn’s lawn, sponsored by Linda Sansone & Associates, with light bites from The French Gourmet, a photo lounge, and an opportunity drawing featuring designer handbags, staycations, and spa treatments. Guests can shop for fashion and accessories at South Coast Plaza mini-boutiques, including Balmain, Camilla, Furla, Isabel Marant, Lanvin, Max Mara, Oscar de la Renta, and Vitra Eyewear. Ten percent of sales benefits The Country Friends.

Centerpiece of the Art of Fashion is the runway show followed by a three-course luncheon with wine, and a live auction featuring items that include stunning amethyst cushion drop earrings with speckled diamonds valued at $9,500 from John Matty Co. in Rancho Santa Fe, an experience with “Sam the Cooking Guy,” getaways, and more. The event concludes with “Sip, Shop, and Support,” the opportunity to continue shopping while mingling with friends.

For tickets, go to bit.ly/2024AOF

The Country Friends is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, formed 70 years ago to provide needed funding for San Diego County-based charities. The Country Friends supports human care agencies, with special emphasis on services to women, children, the elderly, military families, and persons with disabilities. Vidit thecountryfriends.org.

South Coast Plaza is located in Orange County, Calif., in the city of Costa Mesa. Visit southcoastplaza.com.

Originally Published: July 14, 2024 at 3:36 a.m.